The current car, launched in 1995, could remain on sale alongside the new Sharan, as a cheaper model.

Insiders say the new VW Sharan will have more interior space, better quality and more seating combinations.

A van-like sliding door is likely to be introduced, to improve access to the rear. The new model is expected to adopt the VW family styling cues, with tail-lights reminiscent of the current Sharan and Golf-style lamps at the front.

In profile, the Sharan will move away from a clear one-box design, borrowing its shape from the smaller VW Touran.

Petrol engines will range from 115bhp to 200bhp turbo units, while diesels will have up to 160bhp. Expect the efficient 1.4 TSI engines to appear too, and a green Bluemotion version is likely.